Small Business Institute®

A program connecting local small businesses to the resources and management expertise of UCF’s College of Business Administration and the FSBDC at UCF.

SBI® provides confidential and professional management assistance to small businesses through consulting projects performed by MBA students.

SBI Program Qualifications

The FSBDC at UCF is now accepting applications. Small businesses interested in the SBI® program must meet the following criteria:

  • $500K+ annual revenue
  • 2 years operating experience
  • Client company must be willing to meet with student team at least 6 times during the semester

Strengthen Your Business

Central Florida business owners participating in the SBI® program receive management consulting services tailored to fit the needs of their business. Sample projects include:

Advertising Strategy                                                  Business Plans
Competitive Analysis                                                 Customer Surveys
Feasibility Studies                                                      Financial Analysis
Marketing Plans                                                         Market Research
Strategic Plans

Limited space is available – first-come, first-served.

SBI Application Fee

  • Program Application Fee is due upon acceptance
    • $300 application fee ($500-999K)
    • $500 application fee ($1M-4.999M)
    • $750 application fee ($5M and over)

Scholarships are available to businesses located in Orange County, FL.

Program Guidelines

In order for SBI® clients to get the most from the program, they need to follow the following program guidelines:

  • Being available to the student SBI team at the times the client company and student team mutually agreed upon. Depending on student work schedules it may be necessary to schedule meetings after hours or on the weekend.
  • It is required that the student team meets with the client company at least 6 times during the semester.
  • Maintain weekly communication, if needed, with the student SBI team.
  • Making available to the student SBI team those records, files, and financial statements that the team and the client company agree are necessary to complete their project.
  • Using the student SBI team in their proper capacity as “consultants” and not expecting the students to serve as interns or temporary help to do work that would normally be performed by regular employees.
  • Signing a “Client Acknowledgment” of the final report at the completion of the project.
  • Expecting some follow-up research and surveys to determine the quality and effectiveness of the SBI program.
  • Please read the SBI Client Handbook

For more information please contact:

Jessica Ali
Jessica.Ali@ucf.edu
407.420.4868

image Funded in part by Orange County Government

Small Business Institute, SBI

Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2024

Apply Now!

“The SBI program was an eye-opening experience, uncovering hidden gems in the market and offering essential strategies for growth. Highly recommended for any entrepreneur seeking to elevate their business.”

“My SBI® team actually took a deep dive into my business and presented me with a plan for further growth in my business which I implemented with great results.”

“We were delighted with the process and the results. The students assigned to us were very knowledgeable and committed to the project. This program is a great way to give back to the community while also providing a different perspective on one’s organization.”

“A team of three graduate level students from UCF out classed, outperformed, and out hustled each and every consultation team I have hired over the past 20 years. It was an absolute breath of fresh air to deal with a team so well organized and focused. They have made a greater impact on our company than they will ever know.”

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